Air purifiers can actually make a big difference in the health and quality of life for individuals in their golden years. Here are 5 advantages that air purifiers offer senior citizens.
- Air purifiers can remove bacteria and viruses from the air. One of the most critical functions of an air purifier is to filter the air of particles that cause illness. Many viruses are airborne and bacteria can also be carried in the air, and even brought in from the outside. These particles can cause various forms of sickness, particularly in the elderly. A high-quality air purifier with a HEPA or better air filter will remove fine particles, gasses, and respiratory matter that can spread illness, as well as other common irritants like mold and mildew particles. In fact, Medify air purifiers have been through extensive third-party testing, and certain units were found to successfully remove 99.95 - 99.99% of the harmful particles.
- Air purifiers may offer additional protection against COVID-19. The COVID-19 virus is spread through exposure to infectious respiratory fluids. According to the CDC, many of the cases in the USA have occurred among older adults living in nursing homes or long-term care facilities. Unfortunately, the emergence of the Omicron virus proves that we will likely be dealing with the pandemic for a long time, and we need to take measures whenever possible to combat the spread. It was always important to properly manage air quality in residences of the elderly, but with the latest information related to the pandemic, it’s more important than ever. Clean air offers another layer of protection: according to the EPA, “When used properly, air purifiers can help reduce airborne contaminants including viruses in a home or confined space.” All Medify systems use True HEPA H13 filters. Some units also come with an even higher grade, True HEPA H14. True HEPA H13 removes 99.9% of particles down to 0.1 microns in size. The coronavirus particle is 0.125 microns in size.
- Air purifiers cleanse the air to help with asthma and allergens. According to the EPA, older adults are especially vulnerable to ozone and particulate matter. Fine particle pollution has been linked to issues like premature death, cardiac arrhythmias and heart attacks, asthma attacks, and the development of chronic bronchitis. Additionally, poor air quality can exacerbate any existing respiratory conditions. Removing the air particles that contain those pollutants can really improve the quality of life for people who have allergies or are sensitive to breathing problems. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) refers to several studies that link the use of air purifiers to allergies and asthma symptom relief. It’s been found that using a HEPA air purifier in the bedroom improved people’s allergic rhinitis symptoms by reducing the concentration of particulate matter and house dust mites in the air. Additionally, studies have noted that air purifiers are a promising therapeutic option for people with asthma triggered by dust mites.
- Air purifiers remove odors to provide peace of mind. Every home has a distinct smell that is composed of personal elements like laundry detergent, cleaning products, personal grooming substances, and commonly cooked foods. Many older people begin to worry that their home doesn’t smell as they wish it did. Installing an air purifier in their space can assure them that any unpleasant smells are being removed. The most powerful type of air purifier combines upgraded technology and modern design. These filters remove 99.9% of particles down to 0.1 microns. A three-layer filtration process leverages a carbon filter to remove toxic odors, smoke, & formaldehyde.
- Air purifiers protect against mold in older homes. Mold spores have become a serious health issue and are particularly common in buildings that have been around for a long time. It’s even more prevalent in spaces that have been exposed to moisture, leaks over time, etc. - this tends to be the case when individuals have been in the same residence for a long time. The best defense against mold is to prevent it in the first place, but that’s not always possible. Place an air purifier in places prone to mold: basements, bathrooms, kitchens, and rooms with upholstered furniture. Don’t forget to replace your filters as needed, too.
There is an air purifier that is right for any space, budget and need. Talk to our experts to decide which is best for you or your loved ones.